Category: News

His passing deeply saddened many who knew him, with tributes describing him as a man of integrity, humanity, and unwavering dedication to duty.

In a message shared on X, Rwanda’s Ambassador to the United States, Mathilde Mukantabana, remembered him as “a truly remarkable individual.” She wrote:

“Today marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in the life of Lt Gen Innocent Kabandana. I feel deeply saddened to lose a friend, yet I’m grateful for the time we shared.”

Recalling his role as Defence Attaché in Washington, D.C., she said: “During my early days as ambassador, he was more than just a colleague – he was a trusted partner and sounding board. His strategic mind, diplomatic finesse, and unwavering dedication to Rwanda embodied the very values of a Rwandan officer.”

She also praised his unrelenting pursuit of knowledge and growth, all for the benefit of Rwanda.

Amb. Mukantabana concluded that his legacy lives on through his wife Sabine and their children—Monia, Brave, Brandon, and Noria—“who have grown into fantastic individuals.”

The Secretary General of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), Louise Mushikiwabo, also expressed her sorrow, saying: “Gen Kabandana was known for his integrity, wisdom, and boundless love for his family and for his country. Those of us who lived and worked with him are deeply saddened by his sudden passing, but the legacy he leaves behind on this earth is a source of comfort.”

{{A lifetime of service}}

Lt Gen Kabandana joined the Rwandan Patriotic Army in 1990, playing a crucial role in the liberation of Rwanda and in halting the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Throughout his career, he gained extensive experience in operations and leadership. He served as Defence Attaché in Washington, D.C., Chief Instructor at the Rwanda Military Academy in Gako, and Deputy Force Commander in the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

Within the RDF, he held senior positions including Head of Logistics, Commandant of the Rwanda Peace Academy, and Commander of the Special Forces.

President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was the first to wear the wristband, during his visit to the Games’ pavilion, highlighting his support for the event and the values it represents.

The launch reflects the UAE’s commitment to fostering community engagement, encouraging active lifestyles, and promoting unity through sport.

Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said, “The launch of the official wristband for the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 represents a significant milestone in our preparations for this global event. It reflects the unwavering support of our wise leadership, led by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in strengthening Abu Dhabi’s status as a leading destination that brings the world together through sport, while inspiring the adoption of a healthy and active lifestyle.”

He added: “The Abu Dhabi Sports Council is fully committed to supporting the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 by providing all the facilities and resources needed to ensure the success of this landmark event, being hosted for the first time in the Middle East. The Council is also dedicated to encouraging the participation of sports enthusiasts from around the world, underscoring its mission to advance the role of sport as a strategic driver in reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s standing as a global centre of sporting excellence and a vibrant platform for cultural exchange.”

The wristband serves as a symbolic identifier of the Games and will accompany athletes, participants, and supporters as they prepare for the multi-sport event scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi from 6 to 15 February 2026.

With thousands of athletes expected to take part in more than 30 sports, the Games will bring together diverse cultures and sporting communities from around the world.

The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 will feature a wide range of sports, including traditional sports that have long been an integral part of Emirati heritage, underscoring Abu Dhabi’s role as a global destination for sporting excellence and cultural exchange.

Asked by a reporter if he’s ready to move to “the second phase of sanctions against Russia” as he left the White House for New York, Trump answered, “Yeah, I am.” He did not elaborate.

Trump has grown increasingly pessimistic about the chance of brokering an end to the conflict anytime soon or seeing the Russian and Ukrainian presidents meet in person, reported NBC News last week, citing two senior administration officials.

A key building in Kyiv’s government district was attacked during Russia’s drone and missile attack overnight into Sunday morning, according to U.S. media outlets.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said it was the first time since the start of the conflict that the main government building in Kyiv had been damaged.

According to Ukrainian authorities, the attack involved 810 drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles, most of which were launched overnight. Debris from the interceptions caused fires across the capital and damaged residential areas.

The strike on the Cabinet building, which houses several ministries, was described as a symbolic escalation.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attack in a televised address, calling it a deliberate strike against civilians. “Russia continues its policy of terror,” he said, urging Western allies to tighten sanctions and increase military support.

Ukraine’s prime minister, Yulia Svyrydenko, warned that Moscow was escalating its campaign by targeting state institutions.

“This attack shows that Russia is not only striking our energy and residential infrastructure, but also our government institutions,” she said, adding that international partners must respond with stronger measures against Russian oil and gas revenues.

The Guardian reported that emergency services battled flames at the Cabinet building for several hours before bringing the fire under control. Witnesses described smoke rising from central Kyiv as sirens echoed throughout the city.

According to local officials, among the dead was a young mother and her child, killed when debris struck their residential block. Another civilian died in a separate blast on the city’s left bank. Across the country, 18 people were injured, including several in critical condition.

The assault also drew swift international condemnation. European leaders denounced Moscow’s actions as a violation of international law. French officials reiterated support for Kyiv, while British leaders said the attack underscored the need to accelerate air defence deliveries.

In Washington, U.S. President Donald Trump suggested his administration was considering additional sanctions on Russia. He described the strike as “a brutal escalation” and said his team was in contact with allies to coordinate a response.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Gala Dinner celebrating the 20th anniversary of Kwita Izina, Rwanda’s renowned gorilla naming ceremony.

During the discussions, Director-General Kim praised President Kagame for his visionary leadership and highlighted the longstanding partnership between GGGI and the Government of Rwanda.

He reaffirmed GGGI’s commitment to supporting Rwanda’s goal of achieving a climate-resilient, low-carbon, and high-income economy by 2050.

“President Kagame’s bold vision and leadership show what’s possible when ambition meets action,” said Kim.

“We are committed to deepening cooperation in key areas, including carbon markets, sustainable AI, greening the Kigali International Airport, hydrogen initiatives, and mobilising green investments for flagship projects in line with Rwanda’s vision to become a green investment hub.”

GGGI has worked with Rwanda since 2012 and signed a Host Country Agreement in 2016. According to the organisation, since 2018, it has mobilised USD 61 million (about Frw 88 billion) in green investments and supported the development of 11 national policies promoting sustainable buildings, waste management, and the circular economy.

Currently, GGGI is collaborating with the Rwandan government on flagship initiatives, including enhancing institutional readiness for carbon markets under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, integrating gender equality and social inclusion into Rwanda’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions, piloting innovative financing instruments for clean cooking and sustainable forestry, and developing climate-resilient district master plans.

Kim attended the Kwita Izina celebrations as one of the distinguished baby gorilla namers. He named a gorilla “Impuguke,” meaning “Expert” in Kinyarwanda.

The event, which named 40 baby gorillas this year, underscores Rwanda’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and community empowerment, principles aligned with GGGI’s global mission.

As of 8:30 a.m. local time (0530 GMT) Sunday, the air defense had intercepted 747 combat and decoy drones, along with four Iskander-K cruise missiles, said the Ukrainian Air Force in a Facebook post.

Five additional Iskander-K missiles, four Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles, and 56 drones struck 37 locations across the country, it added.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian authorities said the Russian drone attacks triggered a fire in the country’s government building and “emergency crews are working to extinguish the fire.”

This has been the first time since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict that “the government building, including its roof and upper floors, was damaged in the attack,” Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko confirmed on Telegram.

Svyrydenko added that apart from Kiev, Russian strikes hit the cities of Kryvyi Rih, Dnipro, Kremenchuk and Odesa.

According to the State Service for Emergencies, a mother and her 2-month-old baby were killed in the capital, while more than 20 people were injured.

In a statement released on Sunday, September 7, 2025, RDF revealed that Lt Gen Kabandana passed away at the Rwanda Military Referral and Teaching Hospital after a natural illness.

The RDF described the passing of Lt Gen Kabandana as deeply saddening and extended its condolences to his family.

“The Rwanda Defence Force extends its condolences and joins the family in mourning during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace,” the statement read.

Lt Gen Kabandana was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General in September 2022 by President Paul Kagame, following his tour of duty in Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado Province.

He had commanded security operations as part of the Rwandan contingent supporting Mozambican forces in repelling insurgent attacks.

Born into the generation that joined the liberation struggle in 1990, Lt Gen Kabandana was among the officers credited with helping to end the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Over more than three decades of service, he rose through the ranks and held a series of senior positions in both operational and diplomatic roles.

His career included assignments as Defence Attaché at Rwanda’s Embassy in Washington, DC, Chief Instructor at the Gako Military Academy, Deputy Force Commander with the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), Head of Logistics in RDF, Commandant of the Rwanda Peace Academy, and Commander of the Special Forces.

He will be remembered as an experienced and dedicated officer who contributed significantly to Rwanda’s defence, regional security, and international peacekeeping.

According to sources, Lt Gen Kabandana has been receiving treatment at Rwanda Military Referral and Teaching Hospital before his passing was confirmed on Sunday.

He was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General by President Paul Kagame in September 2022, following his tour of duty in Mozambique, where Rwandan forces continue to play a key role in repelling insurgents in Cabo Delgado.

Lt Gen Kabandana joined the liberation struggle in 1990 and was among the officers credited with helping end the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Over the course of his career, he held several senior military and diplomatic positions, including Defence Attaché at Rwanda’s Embassy in Washington, DC, Chief Instructor at the Gako Military Academy, Deputy Force Commander with the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), Head of Logistics in RDF, Commandant of the Rwanda Peace Academy, and Commander of the Special Forces.

He is remembered as an experienced officer who contributed significantly to Rwanda’s defence and international peacekeeping operations.

Speaking at the dinner, hosted in Kigali a day after the gorilla naming ceremony in Kinigi, the Head of State underscored Rwanda’s unique model of sharing tourism benefits with local residents.

“In Rwanda, 10% of tourism revenue goes directly to the communities living around our parks. It’s not just support – it’s an incentive to protect and sustain our shared heritage,” President Kagame said.

“To our friends and partners: Rwanda is your home. You are always welcome,” he added.

This year’s Kwita Izina marked two decades of the celebrated conservation tradition, with 40 baby gorillas named, bringing the total since 2005 to 438.

The ceremony drew global icons, including American film director Michael Bay, Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh Todt, Nigerian Afropop star Yemi Alade, former Arsenal and PSG football legends Bacary Sagna and Javier Pastore, and dignitaries from conservation organisations worldwide.

Held at the foothills of Volcanoes National Park in Musanze District, the colourful event was presided over by Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva and graced by First Lady Jeannette Kagame. It featured traditional performances and strong community participation, highlighting the deep cultural roots of Rwanda’s conservation journey.

Tourism remains a pillar of Rwanda’s economy, with $647 million generated in 2024, including over $200 million from gorilla trekking alone.

Rwanda Development Board (RDB) CEO Jean-Guy Afrika described Kwita Izina as a symbol of the country’s dedication to protecting its natural heritage and uplifting communities, with revenues from tourism financing more than 1,200 community projects.

At the event, Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva affirmed plans to expand Volcanoes National Park by nearly 25 per cent, ensuring a secure future for its growing mountain gorilla population.

The government plans to increase the park’s size from its current 160 square kilometres by approximately 37.4 square kilometres (3,740 hectares), a move expected to support a 15-20% increase in the gorilla population and reduce infant mortality by 50%.

The proximity between Bujumbura and eastern DRC areas, such as the city of Uvira, allows for transport via Lake Tanganyika crossings or northern road routes.

Since 2023, Burundian and DRC forces have been jointly combating the M23 rebel group. Beyond receiving arms, these forces have undergone training to help reclaim territories lost in North and South Kivu provinces.

The fighting intensified in January and February 2025, forcing DRC and Burundian troops to retreat from strategic towns, including Goma and Bukavu, relocating to Uvira and surrounding areas.

In March 2025, President Évariste Ndayishimiye launched a four-month military training exercise at Mabanda, Mwaro, Bururi, and Mutukura, preparing 10,000 soldiers for deployment to eastern DRC.

According to Africa Intelligence, cargo planes carrying rockets and ammunition from Sudan and Tripoli, Libya, have been landing at Bujumbura Airport for months, with the supplies then offloaded and transported by truck to Uvira under the cover of night.

The DRC government also mobilised aircraft, including Serve Air planes owned by Indian businessman Harish Jagtani, and five from Mont Gabaon operated by Elie Akilimali Joseph, to transport military equipment and food from Kinshasa to Bujumbura, before onward delivery to Uvira.

Two Ilyushin Il-76 aircraft from Baku landed at Bujumbura Airport in April and August 2025, carrying heavy and light weaponry, including RPG-7s and 7.62mm machine guns. These shipments followed a procurement agreement signed in September 2024 between Burundi’s government and Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Defence.

On September 1, 2025, another Ilyushin Il-76 delivered additional heavy weapons and ammunition for DRC forces, which were then dispatched to South Kivu to support operations against M23.

As the conflict drags on, Bujumbura’s role as a logistical hub highlights Burundi’s direct involvement in supplying arms and military support to the fight against M23, raising serious concerns about the country’s responsibility in prolonging instability in eastern DRC.